10 Ways to Have Fun When Eating Right

“I’m just someone who likes cooking and for whom sharing food is a form of expression.”
-Maya Angelou

“I get way too much happiness from good food”. -Elizabeth Olsen

“Learn how to cook- Try new recipes. Learn from your mistakes.  Be fearless.  And, above all, have fun!” -Julia Childs

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It’s a common misconception.  When people hear of diet, they think “I am going to be so deprived.” Or, “eating healthy is boring.”  Bet yet, “this is going to suck!”  I have noticed how many people decide not to take action because of their preconceived notions.  They look at a decision or commitment they want to make.  If they even suspect any negative connotation to a decision, they run the opposite way or rationalize why its not worth it.

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However, the truth is that there are pros and cons to every decision out there.  For example, unexplainable taste and joy of eating french fries and cheeseburgers is a pro.  But, weight gain, bloating, and drowsiness could be considered cons.

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I propose you look at eating right or dieting in a different way.  Focus not on the downside, but on the positives.  You have the power to make nutrition and eating well fun!  Here are some examples:

1. Experiment with bright colors- orange, red, green, blue, purple, yellow etc.We eat with our eyes and bright colors make people excited!
2. Switch things up.  For example, switch between, chicken, shrimp, fish, and other lean meats
3. Mix 2-3 food groups into 1 dish.  Instead of having 3 separate food groups on a plate, mix them up in a salad, pasta dish, soup, or rice bowl for example!
4. Try different herbs and spices.  Each herb and spice contribute different nutritional benefits.
5. Mix up your cooking techniques.  Grilling, baking, broiling, barbecuing, and others change the taste and experience of the meal
6. Change your eating environment.  We tend to get bored by sitting in the same spot-  eat at your table, outside, or at a friend’s house!
7. Cook with a friend!  Sharing an experience with a loved one will make it more pleasurable.
8. Try ethnic dishes or flavors you haven’t tried before: sushi, curries, Mediterranean, Asian.
9. Flavor your water differently. Infuse it with citrus fruits, mint, or even ginger!
10. Listen to your favorite music!  We tend to be happier and more willing to try something new when we’re jamming to our favorite toons.

Obviously, these are just 10 off the top of my head!  There are plenty of other ways to make eating healthy a fun experience.  Which is your favorite?  Comment below!